The State of Politeness in Modern Britain: An Analysis

Politeness in modern Britain is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that continues to evolve. Over the years, there has been a growing debate on whether the British have become less polite. This article delves into the current state of politeness in Britain, examining the different perspectives and underlying motivations behind the use of verbal expressions, and exploring how social class plays a role in this dynamic.

Introduction to the Debate: Are the British Less Polite?

The notion that the British might have become less polite has sparked considerable discussion in recent years. One popular expression even goes so far as to exclaim, "No we bloody well aren't now bugger off," indicating a rejection of the suggestion that British society has lost its politeness. However, the reality seems to be more nuanced and multifaceted.

Different Perspectives and Experiences

According to some individuals, the British are indeed becoming less polite. A frequent complaint is that many Brits can now be openly rude, with verbal abuse and abuse increasingly common. This sentiment is further supported by the observation that a working-class individual is now more likely to be crass and rude compared to a middle or upper-class individual. However, not all agree; some argue that politeness is still the norm, with verbal abuse being more the exception.

A Personal Perspective: Living Between Cultures

A personal anecdote from someone who has lived half of their life in the United States and the other half in England offers valuable insights. This individual has experienced more verbal abuse in England compared to the United States. This suggests that the perception of declining politeness could be influenced by personal experiences and the context in which they occur.

The Role of Social Class in Politeness

One contributor notes that the use of extreme politeness as a form of masking disagreement or loathing has become restricted to those in the 'Working Royals' or professional diplomats. This indicates that social class can significantly influence the expression of politeness and rudeness. Working-class individuals might be more likely to express crassness, while the middle and upper classes might be more inclined to maintain a facade of politeness.

Conclusion: A Matter of Comparison

While the debate continues, it is essential to remember that politeness is inherently comparative. The British, too, possess a unique sense of sarcasm, which can sometimes veer into rudeness. However, most British individuals are still polite by the standards of many other nations. The current state of British politeness is not so much a case of becoming less polite but rather a reflection of changing social dynamics and evolving cultural norms.

In summary, the British are not universally less polite than they once were. The perception of declining politeness is often influenced by personal experiences and cultural contexts. Social class plays a significant role in shaping the expression of politeness and rudeness, indicating that this is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration.